Best Rangefinders for Hunting in 2023 | Hunting reviews

Can you purchase a reliable laser rangefinder for less than $200? The answer is yes. The Bushnell Prime 1300 and Prime 1700 models are two options to consider, with the numeric designations indicating their ranging capabilities of 1,300 and just over 1,700 yards, respectively. However, their effective range in actual deer hunting scenarios is around 600 and 700 yards, respectively. These units come with incline-adjusting ranging and scanning modes, making them versatile options.

For those on a tighter budget, the Hawke 400 LRF and 800 LRF models are priced under $170; they only offer line-of-sight ranging without incline-adjusted aiming solutions or scan modes. Lastly, the Buckmasters 1500 rangefinder from Sig is priced at $152 and includes a bullet-drop compensation reticle with holdover dots for up to 500 yards, catering to eight ballistic groups.

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Most rangefinders in this price range lack critical features and may not provide accurate measurements. Investing in a higher-priced rangefinder that offers reliable performance and features such as angle compensation, high magnification, and durable construction is recommended. However, if you are on a tight budget, consider the Halo XL450-7 rangefinder, which is available for around $90 and has a maximum range of 450 yards. While it may not offer the same accuracy and features as more expensive models, it can still provide basic ranging capabilities for hunting and target shooting.

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Many rangefinders are suitable for long-range shooting, but the best ones often come with a higher price tag due to the advanced features and technologies required. The Leica Geovid HD-B 3000 is considered one of the best rangefinders for long-range shooting due to its impressive ranging capability, angle compensation, ballistics calculator, and other advanced features. The Zeiss Victory RF and Vortex Fury HD are popular for long-range shooting due to their rangefinding capabilities and advanced features, such as Bluetooth connectivity and ballistic calculators.

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The US military has used various rangefinders over the years, and the specific models may not be publicly disclosed. However, some commonly known rangefinders used by the US military include the AN/PEQ-15 and the AN/PVS-14. The AN/PEQ-15 is a multi-functional aiming laser used for both range finding and target illumination, while the AN/PVS-14 is a night vision monocular that can also be used as a range finder with the addition of an external module.

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The Leupold FullDraw 4 is the best rangefinder for bowhunting. It has a ballistics mode that allows archers to load their arrow ballistics into the unit and get pin holds for various ranges out to 125 yards. The rangefinder is helpful out to 1,100 yards, making it a decent rifle rangefinder, but it excels in ballistics mode for archery-specific distances. The rangefinder has accurate range finding and archery-specific software, making it a handy unit for bow hunters.

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The key to accurate shooting and ethical hunting is knowing the precise distance to your target. Rangefinders are essential tools for guiding your shot regardless of the terrain or distance. Fortunately, rangefinder models are available to suit any budget and shooting style. However, it can be difficult to distinguish the strengths and weaknesses of laser rangefinders based on marketing materials or exterior design alone.

To truly understand their capabilities, you must test them in the real world under the conditions you will use them. This is precisely what we did in various terrains, shooting scenarios, and lighting conditions to provide a comprehensive review that will guide your purchasing decisions and your bullet. The units we tested were all submitted for the 2022 Outdoor Life Optics test, which subjected them to higher scrutiny. Only new models or significant updates to existing models were included in this review, so you will only see some laser rangefinders on the market listed here.

It is worth noting that we tested both rangefinding binoculars and traditional rangefinding monoculars in the same field. We have separated them by configuration here since buyers typically prefer one type of laser rangefinder. While we are not disclosing specific scores for the units in our optics test, their order of appearance here reflects the results of our annual test of the best rangefinders for hunting.

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Choosing the best rangefinder for long-range hunting requires careful consideration of various factors, including the range capabilities of the unit, the clarity of its optics, its target acquisition speed, and the features it offers to assist with ballistics calculations and environmental factors. The Leica Geovid HD-B 3000 is a top-performing rangefinding binocular with exceptional range capabilities and highly accurate ballistic solutions. The SIG SAUER KILO3000BDX offers similar capabilities with excellent ranging and ballistics technology for those seeking a monocular. Ultimately, the best rangefinder for long-range hunting will depend on individual preferences and specific hunting conditions, but both models are highly regarded by experts in the field.

 

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1. Maven RF.1  - Best Overall Rangefinder

Throughout our 2020 season, we relied exclusively on the Maven RF.1 ($450) and were thoroughly impressed by its capabilities. Despite harsh weather conditions of -8 degrees Fahrenheit, the device could range a deer at 887 yards and help us dial in a shot on a pronghorn at 71 yards. We consider this tool to be essential for any hunting excursion.

One of RF.1's notable features is its high magnification and large objective lens. This makes it suitable for use as a monocular, although it may not match the power of 10×42 binoculars. However, it suffices for most hunting needs while on the move. While it's not a spotting scope, we often use it to identify deer and objects within our field of vision.

The only drawback we observed with the RF.1 was its size and weight. At 10 ounces, it's relatively heavy, and it didn't fit into the zippered pocket in our bino harness, where we typically store a rangefinder. Therefore, we opted to leave the binoculars in our truck and carry the RF.1 in the bino pocket of the harness. Despite this minor inconvenience, we always caught our binoculars and relied heavily on RF.1 to help us figure out long distances for hiking and to the glass and range game. The device never failed us, and we were thoroughly impressed.

Regarding price, the RF.1 is the most powerful rangefinder in its class. Although deer can be ranged at distances exceeding 2,000 yards, larger targets like elk or non-reflective objects can be ranged up to 1,000 yards farther out. Maven also offers a lifetime warranty on their products and top-notch customer service. The Maven RF.1 is an excellent purchase for any hunter.

2.  GoGoGo Sport VPro Rangefinder - Best Budget Rangefinder

If you're on a tight budget but need a rangefinder, Amazon's top-selling rangefinder is available for $130 and frequently goes on sale for under $100.

Although most of the 2,400 reviews are from golfers, this rangefinder can also be helpful for archers or hunters with various requirements, particularly those hunting within shorter distances and not using the rangefinder for other activities.

The GoGoGo rangefinder has a 4.5-star rating, and people generally have positive experiences with GoGoGo products. Thus, if you're in the market for a budget-friendly rangefinder, GoGoGo is a brand worth considering. They also offer a camo option, which is available for just $70.

3. Vortex Fury HD 5000 - Best Rangefinder/Bino Combo

The Vortex Fury Rangefinding Binocular series ($1,200) provides extensive data along with Vortex's high-end optics. It ties in with the RF.1 as the device with the most extended range on the list. Additionally, it outperforms Swarovski's rangefinding binoculars by 3,000 yards while costing only half the price. Impressive, right?

Although heavier than some binoculars, it eliminates the need to bring two separate devices into the field. For an additional $300, the Vortex Fury 5000 Applied Ballistics links with the Vortex app to offer ballistic and shot information similar to other apps on the list. It can also be used with Kestrel wind meters and Applied Ballistic Garmin devices.

Aside from its advanced technology, this is an exceptional piece of equipment. It is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof and can be effortlessly mounted on a tripod for stable glassing and ranging. Vortex also has the industry's best warranty, which is noteworthy. If you purchase a Vortex product and anything goes wrong, rest assured that their customer service is extraordinary and generous, surpassing all others.

4. Leica Rangemaster CRF 3500.COM - Best App-Supported Rangefinder

The Leica Rangemaster CRF 3500.COM, priced at $1,250, is another premium option providing exceptional value. With the Leica hunting app, you can accurately adjust ballistics, atmospheric data, clicks for your rifle scope, and more for each range.

It can provide accurate readings even far from the object you're ranging. Leica does not specify the distance to non-reflective things, as it can vary depending on atmospheric conditions and the terrain. However, it's not unreasonable to range deer at 1,500 yards and larger objects or animals at 3,000+ yards in just 0.3 seconds. That's lightning-fast!

Like the RF.1, the high magnification and optical lens provide excellent visibility as a monocular. If you're a tech enthusiast and already have decent binoculars, this rangefinder is an impressive piece of equipment.

5. Leupold Rx Full Draw 4 - Best Rangefinder for Archers

The Rx Full Draw 4 from Leupold offers some intriguing features for hunting and archery enthusiasts. Priced at $500, it allows users to input their arrow weight, arrow velocity, and peep height to generate precise ballistic solutions for distances up to 175 yards while compensating for angles.

While not the most far-ranging device on our list, it is designed explicitly with archery in mind, and most archers typically shoot within 100 yards when hunting. The Rx Full Draw 4 is also popular among 3D archery competitors who use it to fine-tune their shots at events like the Total Archery Challenge.

6. Best Lightweight Rangefinder

When backpack hunting, every ounce of weight matters. The Sig Sauer KILO2200BDX is a pocket-sized rangefinder that weighs only 4 ounces, making it one of the lightest options on the market at just $330. Despite its size, Sig has packed a lot of technology into this rangefinder. It can be paired with Sig's app technology to determine ballistics and more and can also be used with a riflescope for long-distance shooters, although hunting with such a setup may have legal restrictions. While the glass may not be the same calibre as more expensive options like Leica and Swarovski, its distances hold up to the more costly app-pairing devices on the list, making it a better-value rangefinder available.

7. Swarovski El Range 10 x 42

The Swarovski El Range ($4,000) with Tracking Assistant is a highly advanced and complex gear in the rangefinding market. It works with the Tracking Assistant app to provide various calculations beyond distance-finding tools. The El Range and the app include distance, individual ballistics data, atmospheric data, and more. It adjusts shooting distances based on angles and calculates the required amount of clicks for your scope. The El Range provides the space either with the rise or the adjusted shooting distance due to the angle with just the press of a button. The Tracking Assistant tracks your shot to target, giving you precise information on the location of a dead or wounded animal. These features are a bonus to Swarovski’s special glass, which accounts for the vast price difference between the Swaro and other competitors. The El Range with TA starts at $3,600, making it an over-the-top but highly efficient system for those who can afford it.

8. Nikon ProStaff 1000i

The Nikon ProStaff 1000i ($200) is an excellent choice for budget-conscious hunters who prioritize lightweight gear. While it may not have the most extended-range capabilities, it can still provide accurate measurements within the range most hunters need. Additionally, it has angle compensation of up to ±89 degrees to help calculate precise shots. With a 5-year warranty, this rangefinder offers peace of mind, but based on our experience with Nikon products, it may last even longer.

9. Best Budget Rangefinding Binocular: GPO Rangeguide 2800 8×32

This rangefinding binocular is a smaller version of the 10x42 GPO Rangeguide we reviewed a couple of years ago. It's a better fit for hunters in the western region due to its size. This rangefinder binocular is very user-friendly and versatile, offering features comparable to those of top European brands at about half the price. Although it lacks connectivity to mobile apps and custom ballistics, and its glass could be better, it's an excellent choice for hunters looking for a straightforward rangefinding binocular that's easy to carry into the field.

10. Best Budget Rangefinding Binocular: Athlon Cronos UHD

This rangefinding binocular with superior optics and an efficient interface makes it a competent hunting tool. The 10x50 size of the Vortex Fury HD is a topic of debate among the test team. Half of them believe that the price justifies its inclusion in the essential hunting gear, while the other half contends that similar features can be found in a monocular that is half the price. The Athlon interface provides hunters with all the required modes, including line-of-sight ranging, angle-adjusted ranging, and close vs far-ranging methods. The device lacks mobile app connectivity and advanced features but is an excellent choice for a reliable and straightforward hunting tool.

11. Best for Archery: Leupold RX-FullDraw 5

This rangefinder is explicitly designed for bowhunters and archers. By inputting arrow ballistics and setting a zero for the 20-yard pin, the FullDraw provides hook holds for various ranges up to 125 yards. While it can range targets up to 1,100 yards (short of the advertised 1,200 yards), the FullDraw returns unusual yardages in ballistics mode beyond 20 yards and before 125 yards. This makes it an excellent tool for open-country game hunting, especially for elk, mule deer, and antelope, but less for rifle shooting beyond 125 yards. With the ballistics calculator off, it performs better (faster and more accurately) in non-archery settings.

The Leupold FullDraw features surprisingly good optics for its small objective lens and a menu of reticles, with the available crosshair and circle being the most popular. The red OLED display is easy to see against a range of backgrounds. We tested this rangefinder in treestand settings, where we ranged targets up to 40 yards, and in mountain settings, we went targets up to 115 yards on steep slopes. It performed exceptionally well in the latter environment, common during elk season or Total Archery Challenge events. This tool is also valuable for traditional archers due to its low-velocity inputs. Overall, FullDraw's archery-specific software and accurate range finding make it the best rangefinder for bowhunting.

12. Best for Rifles: Vortex Diamondback HD 2000

This rangefinder outperformed advertised ranges in every mode and target setting, making it a versatile and reliable option for both rifle hunters and bowhunters. It boasts a user-friendly menu and a fast laser processor and comes with several useful accessories, including a soft case, wrist lanyard, pocket clip, and tripod receiver. While the Diamondback is an excellent all-around rangefinder, angle-adjusted mode benefits bowhunters looking for accurate aiming solutions on high-angle shots.

One minor drawback of the Diamondback is a beam-divergence issue that all testers encountered when ranging targets beyond roughly 1,400 yards. In those situations, the unit must be stabilized on a tripod or other support to ensure accurate readings. Nevertheless, the Diamondback is a reliable and straightforward rangefinder for most shooting scenarios that should last for years. And if any issues arise, customers can rely on Vortex's excellent warranty.

13. Vortex Optics Ranger 1800

 The Ranger 1800 is a reliable rangefinder that offers a range of up to 1,800 yards, with an accuracy of +/- 3 yards. It features a durable, waterproof design and a simple, intuitive interface for easy operation.

14. Leica Rangemaster CRF 2700-B

The CRF 2700-B is a high-end rangefinder that offers exceptional range (up to 2,700 yards) and accuracy (to within 0.5 yards). It also features a built-in ballistic calculator that can provide precise aim points for different types of ammunition.

15. Bushnell Prime 1300

 The Prime 1300 is a budget-friendly option with a range of up to 1,300 yards and an accuracy of +/- 1 yard. It features a compact, lightweight design and a clear, easy-to-read display.

16. Sig Sauer Kilo 2400ABS

The Kilo 2400ABS is a top-of-the-line rangefinder that offers a range of up to 2 miles and an accuracy of +/- 0.1 yard. It also features a built-in Applied Ballistics calculator to provide precise aim points for various shooting scenarios.

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What is the best rangefinder for the money?

Budget-Friendly Option: If you are looking for a budget-friendly rangefinder, the TecTecTec VPRO500 Golf Rangefinder is a great option. It provides accurate distance measurements up to 540 yards and is durable and compact.

Mid-Range Option: The Nikon Coolshot 20 GII Golf Laser Rangefinder is a mid-range option that offers excellent value for money. It has a range of up to 800 yards and features 6x magnification, making it easy to focus on your target.

High-End Option: The Bushnell Pro XE Golf Laser Rangefinder is an excellent choice for those willing to invest in a high-end rangefinder. It offers advanced features such as Slope with Elements technology, which considers factors like temperature and altitude to provide even more accurate distance measurements. It also has a range of up to 1,300 yards and 7x magnification.

What range finder do I need for hunting?

Here are some factors to consider when choosing a range finder for hunting:

Range: Determine the average distance of your shots when hunting and choose a range finder with a range that exceeds that distance. Most hunting range finders have a range of 600-1000 yards.

Magnification: Look for a range finder with at least 6x magnification to get a clear view of your target.

Size and weight: Choose a range finder that is compact and lightweight so that it is easy to carry around with you while hunting.

Durability: A hunting range finder should be durable and withstand rugged outdoor conditions. Look for models with weather-resistant and shockproof features.

Additional features: Some range finders come with other features that can be useful for hunting, such as angle compensation, scan mode, and target priority modes.

Are rangefinders good for hunting?

Yes, rangefinders are great tools for hunting as they can help hunters accurately determine the distance between themselves and their target. This information is crucial for accurate shots and for increasing the chances of a clean, humane kill.

Rangefinders can also be particularly useful for bow hunters, as it can be challenging to estimate the distance of a target accurately when hunting with a bow. A rangefinder can help bow hunters make more precise shots and avoid wounding an animal.

In addition to helping hunters determine the distance of their target, some rangefinders come with additional features like angle compensation, scan mode, and target priority modes that can be helpful for hunting. These features can make it easier to account for factors like elevation changes and movement, which can affect the accuracy of a shot.

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Each laser rangefinder in this year's optics test provides reliable distance readings to accurately shoot your target. However, some models excel in style, precision, and customizable features beyond actual performance. As electronic devices, it is crucial to carefully review the warranty details. Although some companies offer fully transferrable lifetime warranties for their optics, they may have more limited terms for their electronics, including the best rangefinders for hunting.

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